INTRA-SPECIFIC VARIATION OF NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION OF EDIBLE TERMITES AT THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA

Abstract

Edible insects, particularly termites, have gained increasing attention as alternative protein sources due to their high nutritional value and sustainability potential. This study aimed to determine the proximate and mineral compositions of termite castes from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. Samples collected from five termitaria, were roasted and ground into a fine powder for analyses. Moisture, dry matter, crude protein, crude fat, ash, crude fiber and carbohydrate contents were determined. Magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and selenium were assessed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) and the Vanadomolybdate colorimetric method for phosphorus determination. Relationships among proximate and mineral components were determined. Moisture content varied significantly across termite castes, with the Queen exhibiting the highest moisture content (90.53 ± 1.11 g/100 g) and the King the lowest (86.38 ± 0.63 g/100 g). Crude protein content was highest in the Queen (7.78 ± 0.85 g/100 g) and lowest in the Worker (3.15 ± 0.98 g/100 g); fat content was higher in the Queen (1.42 ± 0.72 g/100 g) compared to other castes. Magnesium levels were highest in the Soldier caste (11.49 ± 0.79 mg/100 g), while selenium content was highest in the King caste (28.39 ± 0.82 µg/100 g). Calcium, magnesium and phosphorus exhibited strong positive correlations (p < 0.01) but zinc demonstrated a negative correlation with calcium (r = -0.62, p < 0.05) and magnesium (r = -0.64, p < 0.05). Iron and selenium did not show significant correlations with other minerals, implying independent metabolic regulation. Termites, particularly the reproductive castes, are rich sources of essential macronutrients, including protein, fat, and carbohydrates, underscoring their potential as a highly nutritious food source.